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Are you familiar with the term “velcro dog”? It refers to a type of dog that always wants to be by their owner’s side, acting as a constant companion and lap dog. These dogs are more likely to be breeds that have been bred to work alongside their owners or those that naturally have a strong attachment to their humans. There are various reasons for this clingy behavior, including changes in our own behaviors, vision or hearing impairments, breed dependence, boredom, separation anxiety, health issues, or even moving to a new house. However, it is important to note that velcro dog behavior is different from separation anxiety, which involves panic and anxiety when the owner is away. Velcro dog behavior is characterized by following the owner everywhere, constantly wanting to be next to them, keeping an eye on them at all times, and always wanting to be where the action is. While velcro dogs may be prone to developing separation anxiety, not all of them will suffer from it. The key to managing this behavior involves gentle desensitization, teaching the stay command, providing mental and physical stimulation, and seeking professional help for severe cases of separation anxiety. Learn more about A Velcro Dog in this beaconpet‘s article below!
Understanding Velcro Dogs
Definition of a Velcro Dog
A velcro dog is a dog that wants to be by their owner’s side at all times. These dogs have a strong attachment to their owners and have a constant need for physical closeness and attention. They are often referred to as “velcro” dogs because they seem to stick to their owners like velcro.
Lap Dogs and Breeds that Stick by Their Owners
Velcro dogs are more likely to be lap dogs or breeds that have been bred to work alongside their owners. Lap dogs are small in size and are specifically bred to be companions. They love to curl up on their owner’s lap or snuggle close to them on the couch. Breeds that stick by their owners are known for their loyalty and are often used as working dogs or service dogs. These breeds include Border Collies, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers, among others.
Reasons for Velcro Dog Behavior
There are several reasons for velcro dog behavior. One reason is our own behaviors. If we constantly give our dogs attention and reinforce their need for constant closeness, they will develop a habit of always being by our side. Another reason is changes in our vision or hearing. As our senses decline, our dogs may feel the need to be closer to us to comfort and protect us. Breed dependence can also play a role in velcro dog behavior. Certain breeds, such as the Dachshund or the Chihuahua, have a strong instinct to be close to their owners. Boredom can be another reason for velcro dog behavior. If a dog is not mentally or physically stimulated, they may seek constant attention as a form of entertainment. Additionally, the dog may exhibit velcro dog behavior due to separation anxiety, health issues, or moving to a new house.
Differentiating Velcro Dog Behavior and Separation Anxiety
Velcro Dog Behavior
Velcro dog behavior is characterized by the dog’s constant need to be by their owner’s side. They enjoy being in the same room as their owner, following them everywhere they go, and always keeping an eye on them. These dogs want to be where the action is and may become anxious or distressed if they are separated from their owner for too long. However, unlike separation anxiety, velcro dog behavior does not involve panic or anxiety when the owner is away.
Symptoms of Velcro Dog Behavior
Symptoms of velcro dog behavior include following the owner everywhere, constantly wanting to be next to the owner, keeping an eye on the owner at all times, and always wanting to be where the action is. These dogs may become restless or anxious if they are not in close proximity to their owner and may exhibit attention-seeking behaviors to regain their owner’s attention.
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety, on the other hand, involves intense panic and anxiety when the owner is away. Dogs with separation anxiety may exhibit behaviors such as barking, destructive chewing, escape attempts, excessive panting or drooling, urinating or defecating inappropriately, pacing, and exhibiting inappropriate behavior when the owner is not around. These dogs may become highly distressed and may cause damage to themselves or their surroundings in an attempt to escape or find their owner.
Symptoms of Separation Anxiety
Symptoms of separation anxiety include barking, destructive chewing, escape attempts, excessive panting or drooling, urinating or defecating, pacing, and exhibiting inappropriate behavior when the owner is not around. These symptoms are more severe and intense compared to the behavior of a velcro dog. Separation anxiety can be a serious condition that requires intervention and management strategies to help alleviate the dog’s distress.
Managing Velcro Dog Behavior
Desensitizing the Dog to Movements
One way to manage velcro dog behavior is by desensitizing the dog to movements. Gradual exposure to movements, such as walking away from the dog or leaving the room for short periods of time, can help the dog become more comfortable with being apart from their owner. This process should be done gradually and with patience, rewarding the dog for calm behavior during each step.
Teaching the Stay Command
Teaching the dog the “stay” command can also help manage velcro dog behavior. By teaching the dog to stay in one place while the owner moves around, the dog can learn that it is okay to be separated and that the owner will come back. This command should be taught in a positive and reward-based manner, gradually increasing the duration of the stay as the dog becomes more comfortable.
Providing Mental and Physical Stimulation
Velcro dogs often exhibit their behavior due to boredom or a lack of mental and physical stimulation. Providing enrichment activities, such as puzzle toys, interactive games, and regular exercise, can help keep the dog’s mind and body engaged. This can help alleviate their need for constant attention and closeness.
Professional Help for Severe Cases of Separation Anxiety
In cases where velcro dog behavior is severe and shows signs of separation anxiety, it is important to seek professional help. A qualified dog behaviorist or trainer can provide guidance and develop a customized behavior modification plan to help the dog overcome their anxiety. They may incorporate techniques such as desensitization, counter-conditioning, and training exercises to help the dog feel more comfortable and confident when left alone.
Managing velcro dog behavior requires understanding the underlying reasons for their behavior and implementing appropriate strategies to provide them with the comfort and security they need. With patience, consistency, and professional guidance, both the dog and the owner can work together to alleviate the anxiety and promote a healthy and balanced relationship.
